As the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) prepares to elect its District Executive Committees on, May 23, 2025, all eyes are on Rukungiri District.
The contest for the influential position of NRM District Chairperson has drawn three high-profile contenders, two retired generals and a rising political figure igniting intense debate both locally and nationally.
The Contenders:
Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jim Muhwezi Katugugu
A veteran politician and former soldier, Jim Muhwezi has been a dominant force in Rukungiri’s NRM politics for decades. He currently serves as Uganda’s Minister for Security and represents Rujumbura County in Parliament.
Background and Education:
Born on August 23, 1950, in Rukungiri District, Muhwezi holds a Bachelor of Laws from Makerere University and a Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre. His military training includes stints in Tanzania and the former Soviet Union, with a focus on police and intelligence work.
Career Highlights:
- Former police officer in the 1970s
- Veteran of the NRA liberation war (1981–1986)
- Founding Director General of the Internal Security Organisation (ISO)
- Ministerial roles in Health, Information, and National Guidance
- Member of the 1994–1995 Constituent Assembly
- Former State Minister for Primary Education
Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Henry Tumukunde:
Henry Tumukunde is a decorated former UPDF officer and lawyer who once served as Minister for National Security. After contesting the 2021 presidential election, he is now seeking to lead the NRM in his home district.
Background and Education:
Born on February 28, 1959, in Rukungiri, Tumukunde studied law at Makerere University and completed a Diploma in Legal Practice in 2010. He also holds an Executive Master’s degree in Oil and Gas Management from Geneva.
Career Highlights:
- Served as UPDF’s Chief of Military Intelligence, Director of Planning, and Army MP (1995–2005)
- Former head of ISO and commander of the 4th Division in Gulu
- Appointed Minister of Security in 2016; relieved in 2018
- Promoted to Lieutenant General in 2015 and retired honorably
- Presidential candidate in 2021, advocating for democratic transition and opposition unity
Current Ambitions:
Tumukunde is also campaigning for the Rukungiri Municipality parliamentary seat, signaling a broader political comeback.
A political newcomer, Kabano Apollo brings a youthful, civilian perspective to the contest. While lacking military credentials, he has cultivated a strong grassroots following and is positioning himself as a fresh, innovative voice in Rukungiri politics.
Dual Aspirations:
Kabano is contesting both the NRM District Chairperson position and the Rukungiri Municipality MP seat, presenting himself as a generational alternative to the old guard.
About the Elections:
On May 23, 2025, the NRM will hold elections for District Executive Committee positions across the country. Positions up for grabs include:
- Chairperson
- Vice Chairperson
- General Secretary
- Secretary for Finance
- Secretary for Publicity
- Chairpersons for Special Interest Groups (Youth, Women, Elders, etc.)
With two retired generals returning to the political battlefield and a new challenger promising generational change, the Rukungiri NRM Chairperson race is shaping up to be one of the most watched and hotly contested in Uganda’s local political landscape.
